If you’ve done any research about Dublin while planning your trip, you’ll know we have a vibrant and exciting nightlife scene. From traditional pubs to modern and stylish cocktail bars, there is something for everyone here. There are 772 pubs in Dublin and counting, so you’re truly spoiled for choice for places to grab a pint of plain or any other drinks that take your fancy. We’ve put together a list of the best areas to drink in Dublin including the famous Temple Bar where you’ll find something for everyone. DCU is ideally placed for exploring the city and popping into one of the many pubs for a taste of Dublin nightlife.
Temple Bar
Dublin is split into two sides, North & South with the River Liffey the dividing city. Sightly north, straddling the River is the formidable Temple Bar, a place all tourists and locals should spend some time. If you’re looking for a cheap pint, Temple Bar is not the place for you but if you’re looking for great atmosphere, live music and a fun crowd 7-days a week it’s ideal. The cobbled streets are flanked by pubs of all descriptions from music spots like the Dubliner and The Temple Bar or nightclubs like Bad Bobs and Fitzwilliams. It is almost always packed with visitors and Dubliners alike, enjoying free live music and a vibrant atmosphere.
Dublin North
North Dublin has a great selection of pubs and bars to choose from. Head to Stoneybatter and Smithfield for cosy spots like The Belfry and The Cobblestone – where you’ll also enjoy some of the most authentic Irish music in the county. The Harbourmaster is located in Dublin’s stylish Docklands area and has lovely outside space with views over the water. The Living Room/Fibbers/Murrays is a trio of pubs just off the main drag that gives you sports/rock music/traditional Irish music– all sharing the same beer garden. Further North you can also enjoy the on-site NuBar on the DCU campus with a full kitchen and plenty of student specials.
Dublin South
Dublin South is a more affluent and stylish nightlife scene with a great variety of high-end pubs and nightclubs. Camden and Harcourt Streets have something for everyone from the famous gay bar The George to traditional pubs to catch Gaelic matches like Toners and Devitt’s. The Long Hall, 37 Dawson Street and Hacienda Bar are popular with celebs and a very special mention to Copperface Jacks (Coppers) whose reputation often precedes it. Traditional pubs like O Donoghue’s and The Stag’s Head have music throughout the week and are known for their Irish charm and traditional décor. Ukiyo is a unique restaurant and karaoke space that guarantees a good night out for groups.
Nightclubs in Dublin
If you fancy a late drink in Dublin, you’ll need to find a nightclub to keep the party going after 12.30 pm. While the city was once a late-night paradise with plenty of options, nightclubs are fewer and further between but the quality is still high. on the South side, try the very stylish Camden or the famous (infamous?) Copperface Jacks. 37 Dawson Street opens late and Pygmalion has a younger, more vibrant crowd. North Side and Temple Bar has Bad Bobs, Fitzwilliams and the student-friendly The Workman’s Club. There are spots like The Sugar Club and The Button Factory which have gigs every weekend turning into nightclubs that open late.
What You Should Know
It’s worth noting for overseas visitors that the national drinking age in Ireland is 18 but many venues will only allow entry to over 21s or over 25s. Normal trading hours Sunday to Thursday are 10.30am until 11.30 pm. Nightclubs’ last orders are 2.30pm and you usually have 30 minutes after they flash the lights (it’s not a fire drill!) to finish up. At weekends, bars open one hour later and on Sunday trading hours are 12pm until 11pm. Neat dress is essential in all bars and pubs in Dublin, but clean, stylish trainers are usually allowed. Check the dress code for the venue before you visit.Most bars are gay-friendly but there are a few dedicated LGBTQ+ bars like The George and PantiBar where you’ll find the greatest concentration of like-minded people.
If you have any questions, our team in DCU would be happy to recommend a spot you’ll love. Buses to DCU run until 11 pm and taxis from the city will cost around €11-14. Book affordable accommodation in Dublin in DCU rooms and enjoy the famous Dublin nightlife.
